A Winner's Week

We won't deny our disappointment over losing a chance to host a future (albeit way, way in the future) World Cup tournament. Not even Domino could sugarcoat that pill, so let's focus on all the positives gained from a valuable experience, and celebrate the more immediate goals scored by the Office of Sports Marketing this week.

First of all, the gathering at Slainte's. Many thanks to our new friends in the sacristy of soccer (where early morning worshippers were already taking communion when we arrived.)  This veritable cathedral for kickers was the perfect setting in decor and spirit.

Slainte's very generously opened their establishment at 5:00 AM to accommodate the daybreak news teams. If you didn't catch the interview with Kevin Healey (godfather of all that is soccer in Baltimore) it was more energizing than espresso.

When the delegation from MSA posted at 9:00AM, the place was already overrun with cameras, reporters, fans, and soccer operatives from all over the state. The assemblage, which also included our teammates, the Ravens, was a tribute to the outreach, networking, and partnerships that coalesced into a remarkable show of support over the 18 months of this process.

While the announcement was delayed, Terry had the opportunity to share his thoughts about the recognition Maryland had already gained with the press and those who helped on the bid. This continued even after the disappointing news the US would not be hosting, because at that point the conversation changed to what soccer events ARE coming to Baltimore.

Among them -- another international match at M&T this summer, was greeted with great enthusiasm by the Slainte regulars, who attend en masse after evening vespers.

While Terry could probably have talked all day about soccer's bright future in Maryland (Marie Lankford of Maryland Youth Soccer and Matthew Libber of Elite Tournaments represented the growing popularity of the sport) he and his track team had to hit the cinders for Virginia Beach. There, the USA Track and Field Federation would be hearing presentations to host future tournaments.

We can only imagine how exhausting this road trip was after all the drama, but Team Terry must have exploded with a burst of energy just before the finish line.

We heard Friday morning that the Prince George's County's Sports Complex had been awarded the 2013 USAFT Masters Indoor tournament. And by close of business, he emailed that Morgan State won the 2012 outdoor USATF Junior Olympics.

Needless to say, these Team Maryland partners are elated with revenue producing events that enhance the visibility of their facilities. Here are a few particulars about these tournaments and what they produce:

The USAFT Masters draws approximately 1,500 athletes who are 50+ years of age for an indoor track meet that lasts over three days.  It is projected to generate revenues of $800,000 to $1.2 million over the long weekend.

The USATF Junior Olympics youth tournament brings 7,000 athletes from all over the country, along with friends and family, for five days.  Its economic impact is estimated at $3.5 million.

So, as demanding as this week was for Team Terry and their many partners and associates around the state, it was rewarding for the achievements and recognition it brought to the office of Sports Marketing.

Now if only the Ravens can come through for us tomorrow night . . .